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Attorney General Steve Marshall Announces Conviction in Dale County for Child Sex Crimes

(MONTGOMERY)—Attorney General Steve Marshall today announced the conviction of a Dale County man for sex crimes against a child aged under 12. Chad Burdette Gulledge, 48, was convicted by a jury in Dale County Circuit Court on September 25 at the conclusion of a four-day trial.

The Attorney General’s Criminal Trials Division presented evidence that Gulledge committed multiple sex acts against a young girl. The evidence included testimony from the victim herself as well as from family and friends to whom she had disclosed what Gulledge did to her. In addition, expert witnesses from the Southeast Child Advocacy Center testified.

The jury found Gulledge guilty of sexual abuse of a child under 12 and of enticing a child for sexual purposes. He faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years for the sexual abuse of a child under 12, a class B felony; and up to 10 years for enticing a child for sexual purposes, a class C felony. He was taken into custody pending sentencing, a date for which is not yet set.

“Sex crimes against children are particularly tragic because of the devastation they wreak upon the victims’ innocence and trust,” said Attorney General Marshall. “It is vital that we take these violations seriously and punish those who commit these vile crimes. By achieving this conviction, we have delivered an important measure of justice for this victim and sent a stern warning to others that this evil behavior will not be tolerated.”

Attorney General Marshall commended those involved in bringing this case to a successful conclusion, noting in particular Assistant Attorneys General Leigh Gwathney and Michele Davidson of his Criminal Trials Division; Sarah Green, director of the Attorney General’s Office of Victim Assistance; and Special Agents of the Attorney General’s Investigations Division.

The primary duty of the Attorney General is to serve as legal counsel to Alabama's state agencies, departments, and officers. Our office is prohibited by law from providing private citizens with legal advice, representation, or opinions (Code of Alabama, 1975, Title 36, Chapter 15). The Attorney General's Office does not handle any domestic cases (example: child support, child custody, divorce, etc.) or probate matters (real estate, wills, property disputes, etc.). To obtain an attorney or legal aid referral, you may contact the Alabama State Bar Lawyer Referral Service at http://www.alabar.org or by calling 1-800-392-5660 .